A Complete Itinerary to Los Angeles

Los Angeles is renowned as the City Of Angeles; undoubtedly, the beaches are iconic, and the weather’s nice. But it’s a place that is more culturally oriented than many non-Angelenos recognize it: it strengthened itself as the best international playground for top-notch museums, immense-size Los Angeles attractions, extensive hiking trails, and artists. It is a sprawling Southern California city that serves as the center of the nation’s television and film industry. There’s glorious natural scenery, galore sports stadiums, a nightclub that once was a cemetery, and of course, ample celebrity spotting and shopping opportunities.

So, if you have been planning a long peaceful trip away from the hurly-burly of daily life, you have landed in the right place. Without any further ado, let’s get on a virtual tour of this City of Angels!

Los Angeles covers 500 square miles, and the best way to get around is by car. There's also a public transportation system, but the routes are fewer than those in major cities. Following are ways to get around easily without any hassles:

• Car

Due to the city's immense size, having a car is mandatory to get around. A few main freeways crisscross the region but are usually susceptible to traffic during rush hours, so it's better to refrain from driving in the morning or early evening.

• Metro

The LA County Metropolitan Transportation Authority operates 6-color-coded Metro lines across the county. Stations such as the Red Lines Studio City Station/ Universal City Station, are located a short walk from Universal Studios Hollywood, while the Light Blue Expo Lines Downtown Santa Monica Station is located by the Santa Monica Pier and 3rd Street Promenade.

• Bus

The LA County Metropolitan Transportation Authority also runs about 170 buses across the city. Most buses operate between 4 to 5 a.m. and end at approximately 7.30 p.m. to 2.30 a.m. Make sure to reserve a taxi in advance because some taxis never pull over when hailed.

The best time to hit The City of Angels is between September and November and from March to May. The crowds in these months are less intense. The usual temperature during these months is from the minimum 50s to the maximum 80s, filling strolls and visits with much more comfort. As summer begins, temperatures typically reach the mid-80s. The blend of high temperatures and elevated smog levels frequently attracts both tourists and locals to the city’s seaside districts. For a cooler experience, consider planning your visit during the winter months. Remember to pack an umbrella too, as there’s a likelihood of rain in January and February.

Before exploring Los Angeles, be sure to book a room at one of the city's best hotels. Below are some highly recommended options

• Sonesta Los Angeles Airport

Sonesta Los Angeles Airport is a highly-rated hotel positioned just 400 meters from Los Angeles International Airport. It offers convenient access to the bustling city center, a 24-hour airport shuttle, and complimentary Wi-Fi service. The commodious air-conditioned rooms feature flat-screen HD television with cable channels, work desks, ironing facilities, and ergonomic chairs. Moreover, there is an outdoor pool with lounging chairs, live music, and a private swimming pool. This property features four on-site restaurants: Century Taproom, Landing, Bollywood Market Cafe, and Yokoso Sushi Bar.

• La Quinta by Wyndham Lax

La Quinta by Wyndham Lax is located away from Interstate 405 and a few minutes from the airport. This property offers a complimentary continental breakfast, a cocktail lounge, and on-site restaurants. The amenities include laundry facilities, outdoor pools, a fitness center, complimentary Wi-Fi service, meeting facilities, and a business center. The spacious suites are well-equipped with LED screen TVs along with streaming capabilities, microwaves, and refrigerators.

• Millennium Biltmore, Los Angeles

Millennium Biltmore, Los Angeles is a good-rated accommodation that is furnished with an on-site restaurant, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a work area, and a Roman-style indoor pool. There's also a fitness center, keycard access, as well as a safety deposit box. Moreover, the property provides an around-the-clock front desk, facilities for disabled guests, security alarms, and luggage storage. The rooms are equipped with a marble bathroom. There are also club rooms with canopy beds with easy access to a club lounge.

Here are the top picks of the best things to do in Los Angeles; no matter what your interests are, there's something for everyone:

• Angeles National Forest

With 53 trailheads and 1000 plus square miles of wilderness, there’s no wonder why Angeles National Forest is the most renowned day trip option for visitors and locals alike. Whether you're into skiing, running, hiking, biking, or boating, there's always something for nature enthusiasts to enjoy. Here, you can drive up to Mt. Baldy while enjoying the eye-catching views from approximately 10,000 feet, or you can also hike up to the Devil's Punchbowl, as well as the Bridge to Nowhere, making it one of the best holiday options to adventure in the region.

• Bradbury Building

Bradbury Building features a Victorian-style atrium that was built for the gold baron Lewis BradBuddy. It is filled with eye-catching architectural flourishes such as open-cage hydraulic elevators, wrought iron balconies, and marble staircases. This building features open balconies and an enormous skylight unlike any other, creating an atmosphere that is both magical and haunting. Culture enthusiasts might recognize it from its iconic appearances in films like "Chinatown" (1974) and "500 Days of Summer" (2009), as well as in various commercials and music videos.

• The Museum of Contemporary Art

With three museums in one, the Museum of Contemporary Art, abbreviated as MOCA, is a groundbreaking establishment that showcases temporary exhibitions by emerging and established artists. It features the world's premier collection of contemporary art that features 6,000-plus pieces by celebrity artists such as Agnes Martin, Jackson Pollock, Mike Kelly, and Nam June Paik. There are two main buildings, the Giffen Contemporary in neighboring Little Tokyo and the Grand Avenue Building in Museums Hall; visitors can kick off their trip at the Grand Avenue Building, satisfy their cravings with lunch in Little Tokyo, and then explore the Giffen. John A. Burton curated the museum's dynamic exhibits with a skilled team that features blockbuster shows by artists like Tala Madani, Simone Forti, and Pippilotti Rist.

One of the biggest reasons visitors love visiting LA is the soothing and relaxing beach scenes that truly reign center stage. We have put together the best beaches in Los Angeles:

• Paradise Cove Beach

Paradise Cove Beach, located underneath the Malibu cliff, is one of the most popular Malibu beaches In LA and is a legendary private or public beach. While mainly under the Paradise Cove Beach Café, providing comprehensive amenities, visitors can easily ingress the beach for surfing or swimming. Many visitors choose to rent private terraces, lounges, and beach beds for a cost, making it one of the most relaxed spots in Malibu. Those looking to walk alongside the scenic beach may begin their strolls from Escondido to Paradise Cove while feasting their eyes on the truly remarkable views and enjoying a perfect opportunity to cheer a rose glass as the sun sinks.

• Carbon Beach (Billionaire's Beach)

Known as Billionaire’s Beach, Carbon Beach is not officially a private beach, but it surely has that exclusive feel. You may encounter several folks as you begin your walk to the back of the homes of the ultra-wealthy, but for the most part, this lengthy beach stretch offers seclusion you won't find anywhere in Malibu. The pristine, rock-free waters are a perfect fit for swimmers while the cozy, soft sand allows some nice basking in the sun. Moreover, it is a perfect place to enjoy a tranquil, fun jogging or walking.

• Huntington City Beach

Located within a 121-acre park, Huntington Beach was established in 1942 and is an exemplary beach spot located in Orange County. It is famous for its surf break, bustling night and day life, and the International Surfing Museum. Visitors here can stroll through several surf shops for beach essentials or boat rentals, as well as they can also check out the most famous restaurants, local breweries, beer, and bars. Make sure to pay a visit to Normita's Surf City Taco, which is located not directly on the beach, but is a famous fish taco place.

While it's mostly said that “nobody walks in LA,” the reality is that this city has a powerful attraction for hitting the trails. Angelenos are just as likely to close a deal while hiking at Bronson as they are while enjoying cocktails downtown.

With easy-to-reach ocean views, once-in-a-lifetime climbs, and everything in between, here are the best picks for the best hikes in Los Angeles.

• Runyon Canyon Park

The atmosphere oozes out quintessential Hollywood vibes with shirtless model bros as well as blonde sporting yoga pants accompanied by little dogs. Runyon Canyon provides two hiking routes and one of them is longer and provides a rigorous workout. Navigate Runyon Canyon with stops to catch some breaths and capture some gorgeous selfies from different vantage points. Runyon Canyon is one of the perfect hiking in LA for visitors who seek a quick workout or beautiful views without even escaping the city.

• Eaton Canyon Natural Area Park & Nature Center

Eastern Canyon Natural Area Park and Nature Center sprawls 190 acres of nature preserve that encompasses botanical, geological, and zoological wonders right at the foot of the majestic San Gabriel Mountains, offering miles of trails along with a 40-foot waterfall that cascades into a commodious pool. This one of the best hiking trails in Los Angeles is different from the most famous ones and congested trails like Griffith Park and Runyon Canyon, attracting many Angelenos, especially after rain when the waterfalls are cascading.

• Castle Peak

Those who love bouldering and scrambling will love Castle Peak Hike which is located at the Calabasas North. This area was a significant site for the Chumash Native Americans, and you'll quickly understand why once you see the interior of Castle Rock, which inspired the name of the hike. You will find an upward-facing gate with crevices and cracks, idyllic for gripping as you scale the trail. You will be rewarded with sweeping views of the San Fernando Valley rolling hills even before you reach the top.

LA is the birthplace of the most creative, diverse, and exciting food scenes in the country. Whether you are looking for brick-and-mortar restaurants, food trucks, Instagram pop-ups, or street vendors, no matter what the form is, you can always find an amazing restaurant. Check out the below-listed places to eat in Los Angeles to tickle your taste buds.

• Damian

Damian is a Mexican fine dining restaurant located in the Art District, led by world-famous chefs Enrique Olvera from Mexico City’s NYC's Cosme and Pujol. They offer delicious tortillas, a more casual taqueria called Detroit, and an amazing brunch. The carefully sourced and meticulously curated seafood dishes and house-made cocktails make it one of the best Mexican restaurants. Moreover, their forever favorite signature is newer pollito al pastor and duck carnitas.

• Bastia

Bastia is a contemporary Italian restaurant that earned a stellar reputation where cuisines are whipped up by chef-owner Meneshe's, serving innovative dishes, all cooked to perfection in the centerpiece wood-burning oven. Make sure to try out their Spaghetti Rustichella with Dungeness crab as well as the Currant and Pistachio-filled Agnolotti enriched with braised oxtail.

• Pizzeria Sei

A Spartan storefront beside Pico Bollywood, Pizzeria Sei serves amazing Tokyo-style Neapolitan pies making it one of the best restaurants in LA. Their famous pizzeria is whipped up with San Marzano DOP as well as other high-quality ingredients, heavenly thin circles that feature crusts with incredible mochi-like consistency.

Following is a list of the best bars in LA:

• Melody

Melody is a wine bar with a great menu and popular patios, but it's also known for hosting excellent food pop-ups in LA. Besides being a spot for wine lovers, it features events and DJs that attract a diverse crowd. Their "Tuesgays" nights offer a variety of musicians, chefs, and DJs.

• Big Bar

Big Bar is not only a bar but also serves as a cafe and a bakery. The bar teams at this LA spot craft homemade concoctions, syrups, and playful menus. There's an abundance of drink accessories, non-alcoholic cocktails, and puns. However, it’s their Marks, Spritzes, and Martens that truly stand out.

• The Spare Room

To experience the Hollywood Bollywood Mayhem, head over to The Spare Room. However, if you'd rather avoid the crowd of Spider-Men posing for pictures outside the Chinese Theater, consider the Hollywood Roosevelt instead. Here, you can enjoy a remarkably crisp spritz, soak in the vintage charm of Old Hollywood, and even play in an indoor bowling alley. The drinks at the Cocktail Bar are infused with modern flair, making it one of the top bars in the city.

If retail therapy is what suits your interest, here are the best picks:

The Grove

The Grove is a well-known creme de la creme shopping mall featuring 50 retailers. The Original Farmers Market is located adjacent to this shopping mall, offering an opportunity to feast on delicious meals after a bit of shopping cardio. Highlights incorporate Nordstrom, Lululemon, and Michael Kors but there are pocket-friendly options as well such as J. Crew, GAP, and Sandro. Plus, this shopping destination hosts several events throughout the year.

• Westfield Century City

Westfield County City is located in the heart of the city. This mall features a huge gourmet hall, main street shops, and an outdoor event area. You can expect everything from Thomas Pink, Kate Spade, Swarovski, Free People, Kiehl's, and H&M. You can also opt for Shake Shack for a burger and then head to La Colombe’s to grab a cup of coffee.

• South Coast Plaza

South Coast Plaza is a large shopping center with over 300 stores across three levels, including five department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue and Sears. It features amenities such as a multitier fountain, a carousel in Carousel Court, The Hall Global eatery for dining, and a VIP Access Suite for relaxation. The mall also offers a wide range of dining options from modern American to upscale Italian.

With several things to do in LA, there are also plenty of neighborhoods to explore. We have enlisted the best one to save you time:

• Downtown LA

Downtown LA is located in the city center and is known as a business hub which is home to a few banks, government buildings, financial institutions, and departmental stores. Here you can opt for a tour to Walt Disney Concert Hall which was designed by architect Frank Gehry, housing the Los Angeles Philharmonic, located on South Grand Avenue. Just on the southwest is the Grammy Museum and Staples Center where WNBA, NHL, and NBA teams play, while musical acts are performed. There is also the Los Angeles Convention Center next door which features 850,000 square feet of meeting space and exhibitions.

• Hollywood

One of the most popular neighborhoods in LA is associated with glamour, glitz, and movies, that is, Hollywood. Located on the west of North Downtown, it is home to Paramount Pictures Studios, one of the longest-operating film production studios, which is a must-see for any stargazer. You can stroll along the phenomenal Hollywood Walk of Fame to catch sight of the names of 2,600 plus entertainment icons. On the walk, you will encounter a legendary Hollywood locale, named T.C.L. Chinese Theatre. There is another renowned venue located on the block, north of Hollywood Boulevard, the Dolby Theatre, hosting the Academy Awards each year.

• Beverly Hills

Beverly Hills and Bel Air rule over the luxurious charts of celebrity homes and serve as one of the perfect places to go in Los Angeles for retail therapy. You can find plenty of luxury items on Rodeo Drive, a street home to about 100 high-end stores, including Tiffany & Co., Valentino, and Prada. It's ideal for store browsing and window shopping.